“I am hoping not to have to hang my leathers up under these circumstances. I am determined to get my racing licence back and to race again. My career is not finished yet.”

Former Irish Superbike champion Mawhinney, a newcomer to the event, and Wilson both crashed at the infamous Mill Road Roundabout.

British championship rider Wilson said: “The surgeons have sorted my leg out now and I hope to get back on the bike as soon as I can.”

Castledawson’s Mawhinney, meanwhile, is focused on returning to the British championship scene after breaking his pelvis, ankle and heel following his crash in practice.

All three discussed the potential for safety improvements at the North West 200 with Event Director Mervyn Whyte. The famous race has been plagued by a series of fatalities and serious crashes over the past eight years.

Whyte said: “It is great to see all three of these guys back on their feet and returning to the North West 200.

“Ryan, Ben and Nico know better than anyone the dangers of road racing and we really value their support and advice as we strive to improve safety around the track.

“They still have some way to travel with their own recoveries and everyone at the North West wishes them well with that.”

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